### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G5324 (phantázō) derives from a root related to `{{G5316}}` (phainō), meaning "to shine" or "to make apparent." Consequently, phantázō fundamentally signifies "to make apparent" or "to cause to appear." In its passive voice, particularly as a neuter participle, it refers to "that which appears," "a manifestation," or "a spectacle." The emphasis is on something becoming visible or presenting itself to the senses, often in a striking or impressive manner. It is not merely a casual seeing, but an appearance that commands attention.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G5324 (phantázō) occurs only once in the New Testament, found in [[Hebrews 12:21]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding its specific nuance in biblical theology:
* [[Hebrews 12:21]]: "And so terrifying was the sight (τὸ φανταζόμενον), that Moses said, 'I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.'"
The context of this verse is the author of Hebrews describing the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. The "sight" (τὸ φανταζόμενον) refers to the awe-inspiring and fearful manifestation of God's presence, characterized by fire, darkness, gloom, a trumpet blast, and a voice (as detailed in [[Hebrews 12:18-20]] and echoing [[Exodus 19]]). The use of the neuter participle here emphasizes the *thing itself* that was made manifest—the terrifying spectacle—rather than the act of making it appear. It was an overwhelming visual and auditory display of divine power and holiness, so profound that even Moses, God's chosen mediator, was filled with dread. This single usage underscores the word's capacity to convey an appearance that is not only visible but also deeply impactful and awe-inspiring, in this case, terrifyingly so.
### Related Words & Concepts
G5324 (phantázō) is part of a semantic family centered around the concept of appearance and manifestation:
* **Root Word:** `{{G5316}}` (phainō) – "to shine," "to appear," "to show." This is the etymological source, highlighting the core idea of visibility and manifestation.
* **Related Noun:** `{{G5325}}` (phantasma) – "an apparition," "a phantom." This noun, also derived from the same root, denotes an appearance, often one that is supernatural, illusory, or unexpected, as seen when the disciples mistook Jesus walking on water for a phantom ([[Matthew 14:26]], [[Mark 6:49]]). While phantázō in [[Hebrews 12:21]] refers to a concrete, terrifying divine manifestation, phantasma suggests a more ethereal or frightening appearance.
* **Related Adjective:** `{{G5318}}` (phaneros) – "visible," "manifest," "apparent." This adjective describes something that is clearly seen or known.
* **Concepts:** The word relates to broader biblical concepts such as theophany (a visible manifestation of God), divine revelation, divine presence, awe, fear of the Lord, and the contrast between the Old and New Covenants.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G5324 (phantázō) in [[Hebrews 12:21]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a pivotal element in the author's argument contrasting the Old Covenant with the New Covenant.
The "terrifying sight" (τὸ φανταζόμενον) at Sinai highlights several key theological truths:
1. **God's Unapproachable Holiness:** The overwhelming and fearful manifestation of God at Sinai underscores His absolute holiness and unapproachable nature apart from mediation. The Law, given amidst such a spectacle, was intended to reveal sin and humanity's inability to stand before a holy God on their own merits.
2. **The Nature of the Old Covenant:** Sinai represents the covenant of Law, characterized by fear, judgment, and a sense of separation. The "sight" was so dreadful that even Moses, uniquely privileged to speak with God, was filled with terror.
3. **Contrast with the New Covenant:** The author of Hebrews deliberately contrasts this terrifying spectacle of Sinai with the experience of believers under the New Covenant, who "have come to Mount Zion" ([[Hebrews 12:22]]). Mount Zion represents the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God, where believers approach God not with fear of a terrifying display, but with confidence and peace through the blood of Jesus ([[Hebrews 10:19-22]]). The terrifying sight of Sinai thus serves to magnify the grace and accessibility of God through Christ's perfect sacrifice, which removes the barrier of fear and allows for a confident approach to the divine presence.
4. **Emphasis on Divine Initiative:** The passive form of phantázō subtly emphasizes that this "sight" was a divine initiative—God *caused* Himself to be seen in this way, revealing His power and majesty to humanity.
### Summary
G5324 (phantázō) signifies "to make apparent" or, in its passive form, "that which appears" or "a spectacle." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Hebrews 12:21]] describes the "terrifying sight" (τὸ φανταζόμενον) of God's manifestation at Mount Sinai. Rooted in `{{G5316}}` (phainō), "to shine, appear," it is semantically related to words like `{{G5325}}` (phantasma), "phantom," and `{{G5318}}` (phaneros), "manifest." Theologically, this "terrifying sight" at Sinai serves as a profound contrast to the peaceful and confident approach to God offered under the New Covenant through Jesus Christ. It underscores the unapproachable holiness of God apart from mediation and highlights the superior grace and accessibility found in the new way of worship and relationship established by the finished work of the Son.
TRV